{HISTORY}

Getting ready to celebrate its 130th birthday next in just a few months, this small antique porcelain platter was made by Theodore Haviland in Limoges, France in 1895. Containing all the hallmarks of beautiful design that the Haviland brand was known for, it features a delicate floral pattern of trailing violets, a thick lacy ric-rac style embossed rim highlighted with swirls on each handle where a touch of gold paint adds a slight shimmer.

This platter was the smallest size in a series of platters made for this pattern that allowed just the right food to be presented on just the right dish.  Sized at just under 12" inches in length, it's the perfect companion for baked goods, afternoon snacks, sandwiches, or teatime treats. Big enough to hold a cluster of grapes, a small wheel of cheese, and a handful of crackers, it is too small to hold an entire roast chicken but ideal for a shared salad. Just a lovely, accommodating size for small meals, intimate dining, or small space wall decor.

Making and selling dishes since the 1800s, the Haviland family bears one of the most interesting empire-building stories in the dish world.  There was drama to be had both in business competition and in sibling rivalries all while racing to produce the most exquisite porcelain the world would come to know. Over on the blog in 2017, we did an in-depth post on the Haviland family history.  If you missed it, read all about this fascinating family here and see how Theodore made his mark on both this prestigious porcelain and the company's illustrious name.  

Between the 1950s-1970s, Haviland enthusiast Arlene Schleiger began cataloging the thousands of different patterns bearing the Haviland name. Since many Haviland patterns were not named in the factory, Arlene devised her own numerical pattern names to differentiate one Haviland design from another. It was a huge undertaking.  One that consumed a large portion of her life. But it was not in vain. Her work is still the standard catalog tool used by collectors today.

Thanks to Arlene, this pattern is also referred to as Schleiger 148G, a handy bit of information if you are looking to fill out more pieces in your collection. 

{SPECIAL FEATURES}

- Porcelain

- Schleiger Pattern 148G

- Colors include violet, grape, sage, pale grey, celadon, gold and bright white

- This platter is stamped on back with the Porcelaine Theo. Haviland mark circa 1895

{CONDITION}

In absolutely beautiful condition. There are no chips, cracks or staining.  Please see photos.

{SIZE}

This platter measures 11.75" inches (length) x 8" inches (width) and weighs 1.4lbs.

{FOR THE COLLECTOR}

Find more porcelain pieces in the shop here.